Regarding commercial roofing in Calgary, there are various options for materials. From traditional materials like asphalt and metal to newer options like TPO and PVC, choosing the right material for your commercial roofing project can be difficult. Find out some of the best commercial roofing materials available and the factors you should consider when selecting from commercial roofing companies in Calgary.

Top Materials For Commercial Roofing in Calgary

PVC roof with skylights on a very large warehouse building.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a popular option for commercial properties due to its durability and longevity. Many choose metal roofs for commercial roofing in Calgary since they can last for decades and are resistant to wind, rain, and hail damage. They also require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. Metal roofing can be made from various materials, including steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. One of the main benefits of metal roofing is its energy efficiency. Metal roofs reflect heat, which can help to reduce energy costs during hot summer months. Additionally, metal roofing is environmentally friendly, as it can be recycled at the end of its useful life.

TPO Roofing

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing is a relatively new material that commercial roofing companies in Calgary have seen become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a type of single-ply roofing membrane made from a rubber and plastic blend. TPO roofing is lightweight, flexible, and easy to install, making it an attractive option for many commercial property owners. Also, it’s energy-efficient, as it reflects heat and helps to reduce energy costs. Additionally, TPO roofing is resistant to UV radiation and chemicals, making it a durable choice for commercial properties.

PVC Roofing

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing is another type of single-ply roofing membrane that has garnered popularity. It’s made from a flexible, durable material resistant to UV radiation and chemicals. Like TPO roofing, PVC roofing is also energy efficient, reflecting heat and reducing energy costs. PVC roofing is also fire-resistant and is an attractive choice for commercial properties that require additional fire protection. Additionally, PVC roofing is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified Bitumen roofing is a type of asphalt roofing reinforced with a polyester or fibreglass mat. Modified Bitumen roofing is durable, flexible, and resistant to UV radiation, chemicals, and weather damage. Additionally, Modified Bitumen roofing is easy to install and repair, making it a cost-effective option for commercial properties. Its versatility is its hallmark trait, as it can be installed as a single-ply membrane or multi-ply system, depending on your needs. Additionally, Modified Bitumen roofing can be installed with various finishes, including reflective coatings that can help reduce energy costs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Roofing Material

When selecting a commercial roofing material, there are various factors to consider. These include:

Durability
Energy Efficiency
Cost
Maintenance
Fire Resistance
Appearance
Installation

The best commercial roofing material depends on the specific needs and preferences of the property owner. Metal roofing, TPO roofing, PVC roofing, and Modified Bitumen roofing are all durable and energy-efficient options worth considering. When making your selection, be sure to consider factors like cost, maintenance, appearance, fire resistance, and the expertise of contractors in your area. With careful consideration, you can choose a commercial roofing material that will provide long-lasting protection and value for your property.

City Roofing & Exteriors consistently takes pride in serving Calgarians. At City Roofing, we understand the importance of customer satisfaction. We put safety, quality work and on time delivery as our top priority. We work hard to assist our customers in providing proper roofing systems to meet their budget and needs. We offer completed roofing services in Calgary and area on both residential and commercial projects. We guarantee that you will be satisfied with our work and recommend City Roofing as your roofing consultant and contractor. Give us a call at 403-608-9933 or send an email to [email protected]

An essential aspect of building construction is the composition of commercial roofing in Calgary. It protects commercial buildings and plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of the structure. Choosing the right type of commercial roofing for your building is crucial as it directly impacts the roof’s durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements. Before contacting any commercial roofing companies in Calgary, consider the different types of commercial roofing materials and their benefits and drawbacks here.

Different Types of Commercial Roofing in Calgary Available

Heating and melting bitumen roofing felt for commercial roofing installation.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Built-up roofing (BUR), commonly referred to as BUR, is a traditional roofing material made up of several layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, such as felt or fibreglass. The layers are then topped with a layer of gravel or crushed stone. BUR roofing is one of the most durable and long-lasting roofing materials available, making it popular for commercial roofing in Calgary. It is also relatively low-maintenance and provides excellent waterproofing properties. However, BUR roofing can be heavy and require extra structural support.

Modified Bitumen Roofing (MBR) Roofing

Think of modified bitumen roofing (MBR) as a cousin to BUR roofing. It is similar to BUR roofing in that it comprises layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics. However, MBR roofing uses modified bitumen and asphalt with added polymers. The added polymers make MBR roofing more flexible and durable than BUR roofing. MBR roofing also comes in various colours, making it an excellent option for buildings with specific colour requirements.

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Roofing

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) roofing is a synthetic rubber roofing material popular in commercial roofing. It is relatively easy to install and has a long lifespan of up to 50 years. EPDM roofing is also lightweight, making it an excellent option for buildings with weight restrictions. However, EPDM roofing can be punctured easily, and repairs can be costly.

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) Roofing

TPO roofing is a single-ply roofing material that many commercial roofing companies in Calgary have seen rapidly gaining popularity in commercial roofing. It is made up of a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. TPO roofing is relatively easy to install and maintain, and it is highly reflective, making it energy-efficient. If you want to make greener choices, TPO roofing is also recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option. However, it’s important to note that TPO roofing can be prone to punctures and can shrink over time.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing

PVC roofing is another single-ply roofing material commonly used in commercial roofing. It is made up of a thermoplastic material, which is highly reflective and energy-efficient. PVC roofing is also durable and resistant to chemicals and pollutants, making it an excellent option for industrial buildings. However, PVC roofing can be expensive and can become brittle over time.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a popular commercial option due to its durability and longevity. It is also highly reflective and energy-efficient, making it an excellent choice for buildings susceptible to Calgary’s summer heat waves. You can choose from various metal roofing materials, such as aluminum, steel, and copper. However, metal roofing can be noisy during heavy rain or hail and is expensive to install.

Green Roofing

As many have gravitated toward greener initiatives, so have commercial building owners. That’s where many end up choosing to opt for green roofing. Green roofing is a roofing system that incorporates vegetation and plants to create a living roof. It’s highly energy-efficient and provides insulation for the building, reducing the need for heating and cooling. It is also aesthetically pleasing and can improve air quality by reducing pollutants. However, green roofing can be expensive to install and maintain.

Flat roofing in Calgary has become one of the most popular roofing options among many homeowners in the city. You might wonder: what about it is so appealing? Namely, the biggest reasons are its easy installation and being rather easy on your wallet. However, many might not know that proper ventilation is important to keep flat roofs in good condition. Learn why flat roofing companies in Calgary stress the importance of ventilation for flat roofs here.

The Importance of Ventilation For Flat Roofing in Calgary

What is Flat Roof Ventilation?

Flat roof ventilation allows air to circulate within the roofing structure to prevent the buildup of excess moisture. If moisture gets inside due to poor ventilation, all flat roofing in Calgary is vulnerable to forming mold and mildew. Not only does this lead to paying costly repairs to flat roofing companies in Calgary to fix damages, but it can also create poor insulation that will make you see your energy bill skyrocket.

Flat Roof Ventilation Options

There are several different types of flat roof ventilation options available. The most common type is ridge venting, which involves installing vents along the roof ridge to allow air to flow in and out of the roof. Other options include soffit vents installed along the roof’s eaves and turbine vents powered by the wind. Depending on your roof, installing a combination of these different vents may be necessary to ensure proper ventilation.

Signs Flat Roofing in Calgary Needs Ventilation

One of the tell-tale signs of a flat roof in need of ventilation is the presence of mold and mildew. If you notice any discoloration on the underside of the roof, it may be a sign that moisture is getting trapped and needs to be vented out. Additionally, if you’ve noticed that the temperature inside your home is higher than usual, it could be a sign that your roof isn’t getting enough ventilation.

Flat Roof Ventilation Requirements in Calgary

If you have a flat roof, you must know that there are flat roof ventilation requirements you must adhere to, according to the city. In Calgary, flat roofs must meet certain ventilation requirements to be safe and compliant. The Canadian Building Code requires that all flat roofs have a minimum of 1 square foot of ventilation per 150 square feet of roof space. The ventilation must be evenly distributed throughout the roof to ensure proper air circulation.

Maintenance & Repair for Flat Roof Ventilation

Once the flat roof ventilation has been installed, it’s important to keep an eye on it to ensure it’s functioning properly. After all, you don’t want a poor installation to lead to damage. That’s why being on top of maintenance is important. Another good idea is to have the vents regularly inspected to ensure they aren’t blocked by debris or damaged by extreme weather. And knowing Calgary’s unpredictable weather patterns, this has a high chance of occurring. If any issues are found, they should be addressed right away to avoid further damage.

Flat roofs are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners, commercial properties, and industrial sites. But can you find flat roofing in Calgary that’s made of metal? The answer is yes. However, before you look into flat roofing companies in Calgary that offer metal flat roofing installations, you should first understand what it entails. Find out everything you need to know about flat metal roofing here.

All You Need to Know About Metal Flat Roofing in Calgary

A building contractor is installing metal roofing sheets on a house’s rooftop using an electric screwdriver.

Overview of Metal Flat Roofing in Calgary

Flat metal roofs are roofing system that uses metal sheets or panels to cover the roof. They offer several advantages over other roofing systems, including durability, lower weight, and energy efficiency. However, depending on the type of metal, it can offer varying benefits or drawbacks.

Types of Metal Used

Typically, the types of metals that flat roofing companies in Calgary use for flat metal roofs are the following:

Aluminum is the most common metal used for flat roofing in Calgary. It is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly durable. It can also be easily formed into various shapes and sizes, making it ideal for flat roofing applications. In addition, aluminum can be powder-coated, painted, or anodized, giving it a wide range of colours and finishes.
Copper is also a popular choice for flat metal roofs. It is extremely durable and has natural corrosion resistance. Copper is also lightweight, making it easy to install. However, copper is more expensive than aluminum and can be difficult to work with.
Steel is another type of metal used for flat roofs. It is strong and durable and can be painted to match the colour of your home. It’s also relatively inexpensive but heavier than aluminum, making it more difficult to install.
Zinc is the most expensive type of metal used for flat roofs. It is highly durable and corrosion-resistant, making it an ideal choice for coastal areas. Zinc is also lightweight and easy to work with.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Flat Metal Roof

When choosing a flat metal roof, there are several factors to consider, including cost, durability, and installation. The cost of a flat metal roof will vary depending on the type of metal used and the complexity of the roofing system. Aluminum is typically the most affordable option, while copper and zinc are more expensive. That’s why it’s important to consider your budget and determine what type of metal best suits your needs.

Furthermore, it would help if you also considered the durability of the metal used. Aluminum is highly durable, but copper and zinc are even more so. Steel is also durable, but it is significantly heavier than aluminum and can be more difficult to install.

Finally, you should consider the installation process. Flat metal roofs are relatively easy to install, but you should ensure that the contractor you hire is experienced and knowledgeable. It is also important to ensure that the roof is properly installed to ensure that it is safe and secure.

Maintenance & Repair of a Flat Metal Roof

Flat metal roofs require minimal maintenance, as they do not require frequent repairs or replacements. However, it is important to inspect the roof regularly for any signs of damage, such as rust or corrosion. Additionally, it is important to keep the roof free of debris, such as leaves and branches, to prevent water from pooling on the roof. If the roof needs to be repaired, it is important to hire an experienced contractor knowledgeable in metal roofing systems. The contractor will be able to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.

The amount of insurance coverage is a common question for those with flat roofing in Calgary. In Alberta, insurance companies may cover the costs of flat roofing repairs or replacements under certain conditions. However, it is important to understand the coverage provided by your specific insurance policy and the guidelines set by the insurance company. See what you need to remember regarding insurance before reaching out to any flat roofing companies in Calgary.

Determining Insurance Coverage For Flat Roofing in Calgary

How Damages Play a Role

One of the key factors determining whether an insurance company will cover the costs of flat roofing in Calgary is the cause of the damage. If the damage is caused by an event covered under your policy, such as a storm or fire, the insurance company will likely cover repairs or replacement costs. With how Calgary has been known to have hail storms, it’s best to look into options that can help cover the costs of those damages. However, the insurance company may not cover the costs if the damage is caused by neglect or lack of maintenance.

Age Does Matter

Another important factor is the age of the roof. Insurance companies may not cover repairs or replacement costs for a roof older than a certain age, typically 15-20 years. Why is that? It is because they may consider the roof at the end of its useful life. In turn, it gives them the impression that it requires replacement regardless of the damage.

Reviewing Your Insurance Details

It is also important to note that insurance companies may have specific guidelines for flat roofing repairs or replacement. For example, they may only cover the costs of repairs if they are made with particular materials or by certain contractors. You must consult with your insurance company to understand what their guidelines are.

Roofing Inspection May Be Required

In addition, insurance companies may require a roof inspection by a professional before covering the costs of repairs or replacement. The inspector will assess the roof’s condition, identify the cause of any damage, and determine whether the damage is covered under your policy.

How Flat Roofing Companies in Calgary Dealing With Insurance

When you have a roofing company deal with your insurance, you want to ensure it provides various services for you (the homeowner) and the carriers. This way, it ensures insurance inspections are done properly by filling out reports in good detail.

Typically, you can expect this out of an inspection:

Take photos of the dwelling, usually 50. Images include sites of damage and sites of no damage.
Provide 10’x10 ′ test squares from each direction of the residence and mark any damage within the square.
Take & record all the measurements of the roof, siding, eavestrough, fascia, soffit, windows & doors
Using our scope sheets to provide a hand-drawn sketch of the dwelling, including measurements and damage sites.
Record other underlying concerns: missing steps, worksite hazards, etc.

Whether insurance companies in Alberta can cover the costs of flat roofing repairs or replacement depends on several factors, including the damage’s cause, the roof’s age, and the insurance company’s guidelines. It is important to understand the coverage provided by your specific insurance policy and to consult with your insurance company to understand their guidelines. It is always recommended to perform regular maintenance on your flat roof and document the roof’s condition to ensure that the insurance company will cover the costs in case of any damage.

Flat roofing in Calgary is a popular choice for residential and commercial properties due to its cost-effectiveness and durability. However, it is important to understand the different types of flat roofing options available and how to maintain them to ensure they last for many years properly. Before turning to any flat roofing companies in Calgary, check out everything you need to know about flat roofing, including the different types of flat roofs, choosing the right flat roofing material, and maintaining your flat roof properly.

Man heating and melting bitumen flat roof installation.

Understanding Types of Flat Roofing in Calgary

There are several flat roofing in Calgary, which includes built-up roofing, modified bitumen roofing, and single-ply roofing. Check out the details of each below.

Built-up roofing: Also known as tar and gravel roofing, it comprises multiple layers of tar and gravel and is typically used on commercial properties.
Modified bitumen roofing: It is a type of asphalt roofing reinforced with fibreglass or polyester, making it more durable than traditional asphalt roofing.
Single-ply roofing: This, like TPO and PVC, is made of a single layer of material and is often used on residential properties.

Factors to Consider For Flat Roofing

When choosing a flat roofing material, it is important to consider your area’s climate and weather conditions. For example, choosing a flat roofing material that can withstand these conditions is important if you live in an area with extreme heat or heavy rain. Yet, considering Calgary’s unpredictable weather patterns, it can seem tricky to know what’s the right material. For the most part, it’s best to consider a material that will benefit you against Calgary’s notorious cold snaps in the winter, sudden intense storms, and even the heat waves that occur during the summer. Additionally, it would be best if you considered the cost of the material, as well as the cost of installation and maintenance.

Understanding Flat Roofing Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity of your flat roof. How exactly can you ensure that? You can provide it through regular inspections and cleaning. What this does is it can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. It is also important to clear debris and leaves from your flat roof, as they can trap water and cause damage. Additionally, it would be best to have your flat roof inspected and repaired professionally whenever you notice any wear or damage, such as leaks or cracks.

Flat roofing is a cost-effective and durable option for residential and commercial properties. However, it is important to understand the different types of flat roofing options available and how to maintain them to ensure they last for many years properly. By considering the climate and weather conditions in your area, choosing the right flat roofing material, and properly maintaining your flat roof, you can ensure that your flat roof will last for many years to come. Always consult a professional roofing contractor before taking any action on your roof. It will help you avoid any errors and ensure that your roof is in good condition.

You may not realize it, but you’ve walked on plenty of flat roofing in Calgary. Yet, what makes it possible for you to walk on a flat roof safely? See what flat roofs you can walk on and why here.

Understanding How It’s Possible to Walk On Flat Roofing in Calgary

Instances of Walking on Flat Roofing

Most commercial buildings are constructed with flat roofing in Calgary. Why? These buildings typically have to deal with more foot traffic than others. There are several reasons why people will walk along a flat roof. Practical reasons range from upholding maintenance repairs through removing debris and inspecting the roof for any damages – which all need to be seen by someone walking along the roof. In some residential condos or apartment buildings with flat roofs, tenants may also wish to walk along the roof for a bit of fresh air and quiet time or even for hosting a special occasion. Whatever the reason, it ultimately comes down to the fact that people can and will walk on a flat roof.

Flat Roofing Materials Matter

When it comes to people walking along a flat roof, you need a lot of strength to ensure it can handle the weight of such foot traffic. Naturally, it means flat roofs are made with tough materials.

These are the types of materials that make walking on a flat roof possible:

Eco-Friendly & Fully Walkable

One of the best options is green roofing & pavers. Not only is it environmentally friendly since they’re made from interlocking soil receptacles, but you can walk on them fully without any worries.

Designed For Foot Traffic

There is a reason why many flat roofing companies in Calgary use built-up roofing (BUR). This material has alternating layers of waterproof reinforcing fabric and bitumen, topped with crushed stone. In turn, it results in heavy-duty strength that can handle plenty of foot traffic.

Only Somewhat Walkable

One material you should be mindful of for walkable flat roofing is thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). It’s an inexpensive option for flat roofing and is resistant to tears, impacts, and punctures since it’s made of various polymers, rubber, and other filler. As a result, it creates an underlying structure that can thermally expand and contract. Because of this, it makes this material only somewhat safe to walk on for flat roofing. Many try to reduce wear and tear with walk pads.

Handles Foot Traffic in Moderation

Lastly, you can consider polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as a material with middle-level strength among the other materials mentioned. It’s made from synthetic resin by the polymerization of vinyl chloride, which makes it tougher and more durable than thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). For the most part, it can easily withstand foot traffic – but in moderation. Repairmen can’t make careless tool strikes if a commercial building is made with this material. Why is that? Simply put, it can impact the roof’s strength, making it more unsafe to walk on.

There are plenty of homes you can see with flat roofing in Calgary with a simple stroll down a neighbourhood. Yet, can you apply a flat roofing system to a smaller structure like a shed? Understand whether it’s possible or not here.

Getting Flat Roofing in Calgary For a Shed

Is It Possible For a Shed to Have a Flat Roof?

To put it simply: yes, you can! However, a shed’s flat roof will be partially flat. Typically, the design for a flat roof on a shed has a much lower pitch than others. You can expect most sheds with a flat roof to have a minimum pitch of 1:80 or 0.72 degrees when you don’t account for the type of roofing materials used. Despite this subtle difference, building a flat roof for your shed is possible.

What Are the Benefits of a Flat Roof Shed?

Interestingly enough, flat roofs on sheds are commonly used designs for most garden sheds. Yet, they’ve gained popularity in residential and commercial places. Sheds with flat roofs are appealing for three reasons – they’re easy to build, are affordable, and offer a stylishly practical aesthetic. Since flat roof sheds don’t necessarily need materials like shingles, it makes them more affordable and easy to construct. Plus, it means it’s better for maintenance. In addition, the slight pitch’s flat roof design will allow snow and water to slide off the surface easily and prevent the roof from caving in. You can add ventilation and HVAC systems if you want to incorporate them into your shed. Naturally, for us Calgarians, this would be helpful if you wish to store anything safely in your shed during winter.

Any Considerations On Flat Roof Sheds?

If you hope to construct a flat roof, you want to think about what materials you use. Roofing materials such as roofing rolls, rubber membranes, tar, gravel, and metal sheets are effective – yet heavy. Because of this, some opt out of these materials for others that are less durable. It results in a flat roof shed unable to withstand the turbulent, unpredictable weather that Calgary is known for and causes it to deteriorate, like being vulnerable to leaks. Your best bet is to have a professional consult for the right materials that promise strength and are budget-friendly. Also, beyond providing plenty of utility, a flat roof shed is great for increasing the resale value of your home. If you’re planning to sell your home, it might be a nice outdoor home renovation project you can do further to attract buyers’ attention as a great feature. With these considerations and benefits in mind, a flat roof shed is perfect to have.

You can find several buildings or homes with flat roofing in Calgary. Yet, what is it about that’s made it so commonplace? Where and when did this type of roof become popular? Learn everything you need to know about the origins of flat roofs here.

Why Flat Roofing in Calgary Exists Today

Origins of Flat Roofs

For the most part, some of the first homes and buildings were constructed with flat roofs. Flat roofs were typically found in dry climates, where infrequent rainfall and freezing temperatures were a rarity or non-existent. So, it was no wonder how flat roofs were common in places like the American southwest and the Middle East since the climates matched those ideal conditions. However, you can get a good idea of how far back they date based on flat roofs characteristic of the Egyptian, Persian, and Arabian styles of architecture.

Factors Towards Building Upon Flat Roofs

The early foundations of flat roofs used easily accessible materials such as leaves, straws, and branches. Creating a flat roof involved using those materials and pressing them into clay to fill the empty spaces and create a solid barrier for the top of homes and buildings. However, due to the limitations of materials used, a flat roof’s biggest flaw at the time was needing a basic drainage system.

Despite this flaw, it inspired the need to innovate on flat roofs in various ways—these range from using more durable, suitable materials for certain climates and structuring flat roofs differently. For instance, places experiencing snow benefit from a sloped roof to avoid leaks from seeping inside. Over time, these factors help facilitate the evolution of the flat roof, eventually leading it to become a staple type of roofing across the globe.

Foundation of Modern Flat Roofs

In 19th century America and Europe, modern flat roofs found popularity. By this time, better waterproof materials, like concrete and steel, were readily available. Various metals such as lead, tin, copper, and asphalt were deemed the most effective since they were durable for many years.

Once the late 1950s and 1960s rolled in, a notable material called mineral felt – bituminous felt roofing sheet – became popular since it was lightweight and affordable. However, its drawback was it’s prone to leaks. Thankfully, the issue was short-lived from using better materials like TPO, PVC and EPDM rubber roofing.

EPDM has been one of the most popular materials since the late 1970s and remains as such until this day. It makes sense since this material is cost-effective, with the lowest cost per square foot. TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin, is another common material that modern flat roofs can use. Like EPDM, it’s also very durable and heat resistant since it is made of a vinyl composite. However, it’s a tad better since it offers a higher degree of UV protection and structural integrity, allowing it to support more weight.

With these new materials, modern flat roofing in Calgary wouldn’t have existed without innovations making it possible.

Winter ushers in a sudden drop in temperatures that don’t go unnoticed by everyone in the city. Naturally, the shift to colder conditions has many homeowners planning to find ways to make their homes warmer. One such method is by finding parts of the house to insulate. However, for those with flat roofing in Calgary, it has them wondering whether it’s possible to insulate. Find the answer here if you have been pondering whether it’s possible.

Insulation For Flat Roofing in Calgary

How Insulation For a Flat Roof Works

For those with flat roofing, insulating is possible! Yet, when it comes to installing insulation, there are various ways of going about it. For instance, you can install insulation from the inside or the outside.

Here are a few of the following methods to consider:

Inside Insulation

Many roofing companies in Calgary may refer to inside insulation as a hot roof. What exactly does this mean? For the most part, hot roofs are where the insulation is attached to the floor decking and rafters. In turn, it helps create thermal protection. However, this form of insulation has its limitations. If your ceiling height is limited, the insulation will reduce not only the room’s height but may impede doors and windows opening too. It’s why these are mainly common for pitched roofs.

Outside Insulation

Regarding outside insulation, it’s also commonly referred to as a cold roof. Typically, this type of installation involves proper ventilation through the layer of insulation, waterproofing, and the rest of the roof. The process is done by applying a strong adhesive to the foam board, laying it down on the roof surface, and securing it with washer head nails. After, the rubber waterproof membrane adheres to the surface of the foam board. More layers of foam board are normally used in this application to achieve the needed R-value. Yet, for this method, be mindful of insulating rim joists – without doing so can create moisture and air infiltration issues.

Materials Used for Flat Roof Insulation

Beyond choosing to insulate inside or outside, you must also discern what materials to use. It’s important to understand what materials there are to know which would work better than others. Check out the following insulating materials down below:

Polyisocyanurate: It’s the most popular flat roof insulation option – and for a good reason. This material achieves a high R-value even with minimal thickness as closed-cell foam. Its thinness is great for working on a flat roof with little space.
Expanded Polystyrene: Just installed a flat roof? If so, this material is best. However, avoid this for existing flat roofs since it works by expanding into crevices. It must be dealt with much care to avoid cutting off ventilation.
Extruded Polystyrene: This material may not have high performance. However, if you’re looking for an easy installation for an existing roof, this is for you.

The Benefits of An Insulated Flat Roof

For any Calgarian, the common reason to consider insulating their flat roof is to stay warm during the cold winter months. Yet, an insulated flat roof brings plenty of other benefits.

Check out a few of the benefits here:

Stays cooler during hot summer weather
Reduced carbon emissions
Less energy consumption
Lower heating bills
Improved energy rating